The Croghan Man is a mummified body in excellent condition, discovered in the Irish peat bogs in June 2003. On display at the National Museum of Ireland, it is one of the country’s most famous mummies!
Croghan Man is believed to have been found in a peat bog on Croghan Hill, County Offaly. Only his torso and arms have been preserved. According to researchers, the man died between 362 and 375 BC. Less than 20 years old at the time of his death, he was 1.98 m tall – an impressive height for his time, as you can guess from the length of his arms!
The state of his hands, particularly well cared for, suggests that he belonged to the upper echelons of society at the time.
He is believed to have died following an assault by assailants on Croghan Hill. A blade would have pierced his chest. His head would then have been decapitated, and his body cut in two, which may explain why only his torso and arms were found. Significant cuts are still visible on the body.
Theories as to the cause of the young man’s death are multiplying within the research community. Some believe that it is above all a sacrificial rite, in homage to the gods of fertility and harvest. Others place their theory under the guise of accidental chance…
Mark Healey - 
